The recent announcement by the Federal Government that it would allow Qatar Airways to commence daily flights to Melbourne is a shot in the arm for Victoria’s tourism industry.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile. announced on Friday an agreement between Qatar and the Australian Government that will enable Qatar Airways to commence daily services to Melbourne
“This decision is a strong step towards a more liberalised Australian aviation sector, and will underpin Victoria’s efforts to attract tourists, business travellers and corporate head offices”, says VTIC Chairman, Jeremy Johnson.
“Extra seat capacity has been the number one issue on VTIC’s lobbying agenda this year as extra seats will drive tourism growth. Travellers want direct, same plane international services - for example, a domestic flight from Melbourne to an international Sydney transfer adds 4 hours each way to a journey when check-in, flight time and Sydney terminal transfer is included.
“Foreign airlines are important to Melbourne because, they have largely delivered Melbourne’s international airline seat growth since 2000.
“VTIC understands that other foreign airlines including Emirates want to fly to Melbourne, either as newcomers or as providers of extra flights, and we encourage the Federal Government to negotiate similar mutually beneficial air service agreements with their country of domicile”, says Mr Johnson. |
